Waukesha's Memorial Day ceremony in 2011 got off to a somber start.

While the ceremony was designed to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country, one veteran’s near-death scare was missed by few. Dale Bock collapsed at Cutler Park right before the main event began. Many in the crowd were praying for the man as Waukesha resident Sherri Stigler began CPR. Others began to remove trash barrels in the area and cleared a path for paramedics with the Waukesha Fire Department.

Stigler, who is the training and operations manager for Waukesha County Communications Center, previously received the highest award the Waukesha Police Department gives a civilian. She was honored again Thursday night at the American Red Cross’s Brave Hearts awards banquet. Stigler was given the community safety & security award by the American Red Cross.

“It was an honor as a citizen to give something back to a veteran who has sacrificed so much for us,” Stigler told Patch in June.

Stigler, who also is a CPR instructor, credited the work of the Waukesha Fire Department in not only helping to save Bock’s life but to the point where he is fully function and able to enjoy time with his family.

“This should serve as a reminder to everyone that early intervention with CPR can and does make a difference, and so I would strongly encourage everyone who is able to learn the skills associated with CPR,” Stigler said in the June interview.  “It’s a simple skill with powerful results.”